Final answer:
A contractor should not perform work before receiving an approved submittal, as the submittal ensures the work complies with project specifications. Performing work without approval may lead to redoing the work, causing delays and additional costs.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of construction and project management, a contractor should not proceed with any portion of the work for which a submittal has not been approved. Submittals are detailed documents provided by the contractor to the project's architect or engineer for approval, showing how the contractor plans to comply with the design specifications. Approved submittals are essential as they assure compliance with the scope of work and prevent misunderstandings, ensuring that the work performed aligns with the project's specifications and drawings.
If a contractor performs work before an approved submittal is received, they run the risk of having to redo the work if it doesn't meet specified requirements, leading to delays and potential additional costs. Therefore, it is crucial for the contractor to wait for the approved submittal to ensure the work performed is correct and acceptable. Change orders or other project management documents may alter this procedure, but generally, waiting for submittal approval is considered best practice.